From CFO to CEO: Joe Lister reflects on the first year in his new role on The Heidrick & Struggles Leadership Podcast

Recently, Joe Lister, our Chief Executive, spoke with Chantal Clavier on The Heidrick & Struggles Leadership Podcast.  

In the episode, he delves into his transition from CFO to CEO, sharing insights and learnings from his first year in the position. 

Joe touches on his journey, from how his upbringing instilled a competitive spirit and a comfort in supportive roles, to his experiences in team sports, often as captain, revealing a natural inclination toward leadership. This paralleled his professional journey, where he’s found fulfilment in leading from the front. 

He talks about adopting a broader perspective since becoming CEO, emphasising the importance of moving beyond a purely financial focus to consider the diverse needs of various stakeholders, including students, employees, investors, and university partners. Joe also speaks about Unite Students’ culture, building his executive team and his top piece of advice for new CEO’s: “Get match fit.”  

We thoroughly enjoyed being a guest on the podcast. To listen to full episode and hear more of Joe’s insights and experiences, head to your usual podcast platform or listen through the link here: heidrick.com